Deadline to Apply For Property Tax/Rent Rebate

Program extended, says Hess

Rep. Dick Hess (R-Bedford/ Fulton/Huntingdon) would like to let residents know that the deadline to apply for the state’s property tax/rent rebate program is being extended from June 30 to December 31.

Eligible participants can receive a rebate of up to $650 based on their rent or property taxes paid in 2010. The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians who are 65 years or older, widows and widowers 50 years or older, and those 18 years or older with disabilities.

“If you believe you are eligible and have not applied yet for property tax or rent rebates, bring the appropriate information into my office, and my staff can help,” said Hess.

Eligibility income limits for homeowners are set at the following levels, excluding 50 percent of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits:

$0 to $8,000, maximum $650 rebate (Homeowners and renters)

$8,001 to $15,000, maximum $500 rebate (Homeowners and renters)

$15,001 to $18,000, maximum $300 rebate (Homeowners only)

$18,001 to $35,000, maximum $250 rebate (Homeowners only)

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is one of many initiatives supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery, which dedicates its proceeds to support programs for older Pennsylvanians. Since the program began in 1971, more than $4 billion has been paid to qualified applicants.

Residents are reminded to provide all the necessary income, property tax or rental information required to process claims quickly and accurately.

“The sooner you apply for your rebate, the better. Don’t delay. If you need help, or want to determine if you are eligible, call my office,” said Hess.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms are available by calling or stopping by one of Hess’s offices. The Bedford district office is at 133A South Richard St. in Bedford. The phone number is 814-623-9097. The Mc- Connellsburg district office is at 314 Lincoln Way East, Suite A, Mc- Connellsburg. The phone number is 717-485-4430. Both offices are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Interested people can also visit his Web site at Dick- Hess.com.